Phoksundo Lake Trek

If you are looking for a Himalayan trek that feels untouched, dramatic, and spiritually powerful, the Phoksundo Lake Trek in Dolpo is one of Nepal’s most spectacular hidden treasures.

Imagine a deep turquoise lake surrounded by barren cliffs, snow peaks reflecting in still water, ancient monasteries, and traditional Tibetan-influenced villages. Unlike Everest or Annapurna, Dolpo remains wild and remote and that is exactly its charm.

This fully SEO-optimized guide explains the Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary, cost, map overview, distance, and route options in detail.

Where Is Phoksundo Lake Located?

Phoksundo Lake lies in:

• Dolpo District


• Shey Phoksundo National Park


• Karnali Province


• Altitude: 3,611 meters

It is Nepal’s deepest lake and one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in South Asia.

What Is the Phoksundo Lake Trek?

The Phoksundo Lake Trek is a moderate Himalayan trekking route that leads to:

• Ringmo Village


• Shey Phoksundo National Park


• Phoksundo Lake viewpoint


• Bon and Buddhist monasteries

It combines nature, culture, and remoteness in one journey.

Phoksundo Lake Trek Itinerary (10 Days Standard)

• Day 1: Kathmandu to Nepalgunj (Flight)


• Day 2: Nepalgunj to Juphal (Flight) – Trek to Dunai


• Day 3: Trek from Dunai to Ankhe


• Day 4: Ankhe to Sulighat


• Day 5: Sulighat to Ringmo Village


• Day 6: Explore Phoksundo Lake


• Day 7: Rest & Exploration Day


• Day 8: Trek back to Ankhe


• Day 9: Ankhe to Juphal


• Day 10: Fly to Nepalgunj & Kathmandu

Extended Upper Dolpo Route (Optional)

Advanced trekkers can extend itinerary to:

• Shey Gompa


• Kang La Pass


• Inner Dolpo

This version takes 18–25 days and requires special permits.

Phoksundo Lake Trek Distance

Total trekking distance:

• Approximately 90–110 kilometers round trip (standard route)

Daily walking distance:

• 10–15 km per day


• 5–7 hours average trekking time

The trail includes forest paths, river crossings, and mountain ridges.

Phoksundo Lake Trek Map Overview

The trekking map typically follows:

Kathmandu - Nepalgunj - Juphal - Dunai - Ankhe - Sulighat - Ringmo - Phoksundo Lake - Return

Key geographical highlights:

• Thulo Bheri River valley


• Shey Phoksundo National Park


• Ringmo Village


• High cliff viewpoints above the lake

Because Dolpo is remote, guided navigation is highly recommended.

Phoksundo Lake Trek Cost (2026)

Cost depends on:

• Duration


• Flight availability


• Guide and porter


• Permit fees


• Group size

Estimated Cost

Standard 10-Day Trek:
$1,200 – $1,800 per person

Extended Upper Dolpo Trek:
$2,500 – $4,000 per person

What Is Included in Phoksundo Lake Trek Cost?

• Kathmandu–Nepalgunj flights


• Nepalgunj–Juphal flights


• Shey Phoksundo National Park permit


• TIMS card


• Guide and porter


• Accommodation (basic lodges or camping)


• Meals during trek

Remote flights contribute significantly to total cost.

Permits Required

For Standard Phoksundo Trek:

• Shey Phoksundo National Park Entry Permit


• TIMS Card

For Upper Dolpo:

• Restricted Area Permit (expensive)

Permits must be arranged via registered trekking agencies.

How Difficult Is Phoksundo Lake Trek?

Difficulty level:

• Moderate


• Some steep ascents


• High-altitude exposure


• Remote logistics

Not as demanding as Everest Base Camp but more remote.

Suitable for trekkers with basic fitness.

Best Time for Phoksundo Lake Trek

Spring (April–June)

• Clear weather


• Moderate temperature

Autumn (September–November)

• Best mountain visibility


• Stable conditions

Winter is extremely cold. Monsoon affects flight schedules.

Why Choose Phoksundo Lake Trek?

• Less crowded


• Unique Dolpo culture


• Deep turquoise lake


• Dramatic cliff landscapes


• Tibetan-influenced villages


• Spiritual monasteries

It is one of Nepal’s most photogenic and peaceful treks.

Accommodation During Trek

Options include:

• Basic teahouses


• Homestays


• Camping for extended routes

Facilities are simpler than mainstream trekking regions.

Routes Explained: Two Main Options

1. Standard Lower Dolpo Route

Shorter, affordable, suitable for most trekkers.

2. Upper Dolpo Route

Longer, remote, restricted, culturally rich, more expensive.

Choose based on time, budget, and adventure level.

Conclusion

The Phoksundo Lake Trek is a journey into one of Nepal’s most remote and visually dramatic regions. Unlike commercial trekking trails, Dolpo offers silence, authenticity, and raw Himalayan landscapes.

For trekkers seeking something different beyond Everest and Annapurna Phoksundo Lake stands as a true hidden paradise.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the Phoksundo Lake Trek itinerary?

Typically 10 days via Juphal, Dunai, Ringmo, and return.

2. How long is the Phoksundo Lake Trek?

Around 90–110 km depending on route.

3. What is the cost of Phoksundo Lake Trek?

Standard trek costs between $1,200–$1,800.

4. How difficult is Phoksundo Lake Trek?

Moderate difficulty with some steep sections.

5. Where is Phoksundo Lake located?

In Dolpo district inside Shey Phoksundo National Park.

6. What permits are required?

National Park Permit and TIMS card.

7. Is Phoksundo Lake Trek suitable for beginners?

Yes, with proper preparation.

8. What is the altitude of Phoksundo Lake?

3,611 meters above sea level.

9. How to reach Phoksundo Lake?

Fly to Nepalgunj, then Juphal, followed by trekking.

10. Is camping required?

Camping is optional for standard trek but required for Upper Dolpo.

11. When is the best time to trek?

Spring and autumn seasons.

12. Is the trek crowded?

No, it is one of Nepal’s less crowded treks.